MERTHYR Tydfil FC Secretary Anthony Hughes reacted with absolute delight when informed the FAW is considering allowing the English pyramid clubs back into the Welsh Cup.

MERTHYR Tydfil FC Secretary Anthony Hughes reacted with absolute delight when informed the FAW is considering allowing the English pyramid clubs back into the Welsh Cup.

The Martyrs enjoyed the full benefits of winning the cup in 1987 when they drew Italian club Atalanta, who they beat 2-1 at Penydarren Park, before losing 2-0 in the away leg.

Hughes said the interest and income it generated for the club was something that couldn't be bought.

"We are still known for that game because it really put us on the map," said Hughes. "After that we had clubs from all over Europe calling us and we played CSKA Moscow, Red Star Belgrade and the Maltese national team here in friendlies soon after that.

"The increase in prize money from #500 to #50,000 would potentially make a massive difference to the financial stability of this club, were we allowed back into the competition.

"We didn't want to leave the competition in the first place, the decision was enforced on us, and as far as we are concerned, we are full members of the Welsh FA and we want to be involved.

"Instead of competing against Newport County for a place in the FAW Premier Cup we feel we should all be involved in the Welsh Cup.

"Every year the FAW sends us application forms for the cup and we don't fill them in because of the complications but it's a discussion we have at the start of every season and we would welcome it."